Abuja, Nigeria
Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate of Nigeria, says he has never sexually harassed Natasha Akpoti-Uduanghan or any other woman.
Speaking during Wednesday’s plenary, Akpabio addressed the sexual harassment petition filed against him by Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central.
The former Akwa Ibom governor said he has received numerous calls from Nigerians regarding the allegation, which he dismissed as false.
“At no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on the said distinguished senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman for that matter,” Akpabio said.
“I and my siblings were raised very well by my late single mother, who died in 2000, through very difficult times. And I therefore have the highest regard for women.
“I also have four beautiful daughters. At no time would I ever harass any woman and I have never done so.
“Even as a state governor, I won several awards, including the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”
The senate president thanked his colleagues and other Nigerians for their “calls of support, solidarity and prayers”, adding that he would be vindicated.
“I urge all Nigerians, particularly the media, and members of the social media, to await the court’s decision. And please, do not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegation.
“The Almighty God will step in to vindicate the just.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio clashed over seating arrangements on February 20, after which she was referred to the Senate’s disciplinary panel for further action.
Five days later, on February 25, she filed a ₦100 billion defamation lawsuit against the Senate President.
During the weekend, a claim emerged that the senate president had apologised to the female senator which was a piece of fake news as fact-checked by DailyAgent Check.
